[pct-l] Pct-l Digest, Vol 10, Issue 36

[jeff.singewald at comcast.net]

Greg,
Donna,

I would agree with both of you about the beauty of the High Sierra prior to the melt.  In 2006, there were at least 30 thrus travelled many many miles in the Sierra prior to the major melt.  Having left KM around June 6th, I look back and think it would have been easier to have left a week or two earlier.  Once the melt begins, travelling through the Sierra in deep snow is very strenuous and time consuming.  Travelling with two others, navigation wasn't the difficult part.  With the trail covered for many miles at a stretch you simply use your map and compass and take the most direct route that you are comfortable with.

I will definitely return to the High Sierra again though as I would like to see what the lakes look like when they are not frozen over :)

For those considering late May or early June departures in heavy snow years, check out any number of 2005 or 2006 journals.

-------------- Original message -------------- 
From: bighummel at aol.com 

> Wow, it is truly a rare thing when Donna and I agree on something and this is 
> one.? I have touted leaving early into the Sierra for those comfortable, 
> experienced and equipped for snow travel, as seeing the Sierra in full snow is a 
> treat that few of us get to experience, plus you have the benefit of no bears 
> nor bugs yet, and no people!! Truly on your own.? As Donna says, though, go 
> prepared for anything, as late Spring snow storms do happen, about 20% of the 
> time according to records. 
> 
> Greg Hummel "Strider" 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> From: "Donna Saufley" 
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] April hiking 
> To: , 
> Message-ID: <001801c932de$25946320$70bd2960$@com> 
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" 
> 
> Roger and all other aspiring thrus, 
> 
> Mid-April is a fairly typical start date. Many hikers leave a week to 10 
> days before the KO, and then hitch back to the event, which is usually near 
> the end of April. 
> 
> A "wait it out" strategy is one option, but I offer the following for 
> consideration. I had the great privilege of hiking through the Sierras in 
> June-July of '06, a big snow year. I've been up there subsequently at the 
> same time of year, but in average snow conditions, and in the fall and 
> winter hiking, snowshoeing, and x-country skiing. IMHO, snow can be your 
> friend; it is much easier to walk on consolidated snow than it is to walk on 
> snow that is rotting out, where you are post holing through. If you're ahead 
> of the peak melt-off, the streams are not as swollen. The point is, waiting 
> sets you up for a different set of challenges, not necessarily "better" 
> conditions. 
> 
> If you haven't already, I strongly recommend spending time getting 
> comfortable hiking and camping on snow, learning how to self-arrest, use a 
> map and compass, and how to read snow conditions. Make sure you and your 
> gear are ready for what might get thrown at you. It will make you a more 
> prepared long-distance hiker, and it opens up a whole world of opportunity 
> and enchantment. Besides, it's fun! 
> 
> L-Rod 
> 
> 
> 
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